OK, I think I finally figured out �neck thing.� Almost a month ago, I did some exercises that I believe pinched nerves in my lower neck -- in the brachial plexus area (probably the long thoracic?). The
brachial plexus is a very complex piece of anatomy � a bundle of nerves, arteries and muscles that are near the shoulder. Pinched nerves in this area are not uncommon, especially among athletes.
Any way, I was doing the �standing leg press� which exerts downward force on the shoulder. Nothing �popped� then, but I felt a localized pain in my shoulder blade later that day. After sorting through different symptoms and daily activities, I figured I must have bruised a nerve in this area. A visit with the neurologist is surely the next step�I can�t wait for an EMG!
In the past year, I have talked to people that have injured themselves on inversion tables, nautilus equipment, and other specialized high-tech systems like the Medex. Most of these people even had professional assistance but still got hurt! One can never be too careful, I suppose.
My weight training days are probably over. I am moving to the safer world of Tai Chi. Aerobic activities? Coffee gets your heart rate up, doesn�t it?!